CHD3s

CHD3s refers to the CHD3 family of chromodomain helicase DNA-binding proteins, including the human CHD3 gene product and orthologous proteins in other species. Members of this family are ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers that use energy from ATP hydrolysis to reposition nucleosomes and alter chromatin accessibility. CHD3 proteins typically contain N-terminal chromodomains, a central helicase/ATPase domain, and auxiliary regions that mediate interactions with other proteins.

In humans, CHD3 is a core component of the NuRD complex, a multi-subunit assembly that couples chromatin remodeling with histone deacetylation. Through NuRD, CHD3 participates in transcriptional repression during development, differentiation, and DNA damage response. CHD3s regulate gene expression patterns that are important for neural development and brain function.

Variants in CHD3 have been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. Individuals with CHD3-related conditions may present with developmental delay, speech and language impairment, and other cognitive or behavioral features; many cases appear to arise de novo.

CHD3s are conserved across metazoans, with orthologs identified in model organisms, reflecting a broad and evolutionarily preserved role in chromatin remodeling and gene regulation. As chromatin remodelers in the CHD family, CHD3s contribute to the control of gene expression programs that shape development and cellular differentiation.